Microsoft's Net strategy taking shape

Despite unending criticism, Microsoft must be doing something right. The company's earnings blow Wall Street estimates out of the water as it "reviews" plans to issue a tracking stock for its Net properties.

Despite unending criticism, Microsoft must be doing something right. The company's earnings blow Wall Street estimates out of the water as it "reviews" plans to issue a tracking stock for its Net properties.

"If they were to spin it out to investors and then demonstrate that the shares were significantly undervalued, that would get a lot of attention."

- Brett Berry, portfolio manager, Bailard Biehl & Kaiser

Microsoft: To track, or not to track?
Company executives say they are "reviewing" splitting off Microsoft's Internet holdings as a separate tracking stock but hedge on a timetable for disclosure of such a plan.

previous coverage
Microsoft may issue MSN tracking stock
Microsoft considers creating new shares that track the performance of its Internet businesses, a move that would generate stock to use for acquisitions.

Microsoft enters free PC throng
Microsoft will offer a free computer to customers who sign up for three years of its Internet service, the latest move in a game of one-upmanship driving down the price of hardware.